The declaration was made during plenary on Thursday, October 15, following Akpabio’s response to criticism over the Senate’s consideration of a bill seeking to decriminalise attempted suicide.

Akpabio said the controversy had attracted accusations of religious bias and alleged that some of the criticism was politically motivated as political manoeuvring for leadership positions in the next National Assembly gathered pace.

He urged commentators to examine the issues carefully rather than make statements he said could damage the reputations of public officials.

Following his remarks, Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno expressed confidence that many serving senators would return to the chamber after the 2027 elections and support Akpabio’s continued leadership.

Monguno, who represents Borno North Senatorial District, declared that the Senate presidency and other principal offices should not be considered vacant, extending his support to Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and the current principal officers.

Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing Ekiti North, backed Monguno’s position, arguing that Akpabio should retain the Senate presidency in the next Assembly.

Akpabio subsequently put the declaration to a voice vote, which received the support of the majority of senators present.

The endorsement signals backing from lawmakers currently serving in the 10th Senate, but it does not automatically secure Akpabio’s return. The composition of the next Senate will depend on the outcome of the 2027 National Assembly elections, while the selection of its presiding officers will be determined by members of the incoming chamber.

Akpabio was elected Senate President in June 2023. He is seeking to retain the position when the 11th National Assembly takes over in 2027.

His ambition could face competition from other political figures. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has been reported to be interested in the position after his governorship tenure, while Senator Adams Oshiomhole has also been linked to the contest. Such reports reflect political speculation rather than a confirmed outcome.

The debate over the Senate leadership comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the next general elections. Akpabio has also publicly sought President Bola Tinubu’s support for his bid to remain Senate President.

The 11th National Assembly is expected to be inaugurated after the 2027 elections. Newly elected senators will take their oaths of office and elect their presiding officers as part of the proceedings that establish the new chamber.

Meanwhile, Akpabio used Thursday’s plenary to reject claims that his comments on the attempted-suicide bill reflected hostility towards any religious group. He said his relationships with Muslims and his support for prayers for Nigeria contradicted the allegations.

He also criticised what he described as politically driven interpretations of the Senate’s proceedings, urging commentators to focus on the substance of legislative debates.

The Senate’s declaration has added another development to the emerging contest over the leadership of the next National Assembly. However, the final decision on who becomes Senate President will rest with the senators elected to the 11th Senate.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia